Microblading Frequently Asked Questions

What is Microblading?

Microblading, also called Semi-Permanent Makeup, is a form of permanent cosmetics specifically for the eyebrows that was founded in the 90’s in Asia. It is the manual process of implanting color pigment beneath the surface of the skin using a hand tool with tiny, sterile, disposable group of inline needles to produce the appearance of simulated brow hairs. The purpose of microblading is to fill in sparse or thinning brows, add fullness, thicken and/or lengthen the shape if desired, or create a whole brow if you have little to no brow hair.

What is shading?

We also offer manual shading, which uses a different type of needle to deposit the pigment in a "shaded" manner to create fullness as brow makeup would. Shading is recommended for those with spots of real brow hair missing, as the areas with your real brow hair are going to look darker/fuller than the areas with microblading strokes alone. It is also recommended for those that like the appearance of full, more definded brows filled in with makeup. At this time we only offer manual shading, however we aim to offer shading with a machine soon! Machine shading, which also can be referred to as Ombre, Powder or combo brows(both microblading and machine shaded), has longer lasting results.

Is Microblading permanent?

When done correctly, Microblading is a semi-permanent cosmetic tattoo as it is superficial to the skin, being deposited into the skins second layer(dermis) and the pigments are more degradable than regular tattoo inks.

How long does Microblading last?

That depends more on the client and the health of their skin. A lot of factors will play into how your brows heal. Microblading can last anywhere from 6 months to 2-3 years before needing a touch-up. Microblading is not meant to last forever. Sun exposure, certain skincare products, and exfoliation will subject your brows to fading over time. Oilier skin types and those on certain types of medication may also lose pigment quicker.

Does Microblading hurt?

There is some discomfort with Microblading. You are numbed prior and also during the procedure so the pain level can be minimized. Everyone is different and their skin may not take to the take topical anesthetic as well as others, while others feel no pain at all. Everyone's pain threshold is different, however it has never been unbearable for any of our clients.

The skin on the tail of your brows is thinner than the front of your brows, so you may feel more discomfort in that area. If you desire manual shading as well, there can be some discomfort as it is done after the microblading strokes.

You do not want to take any pain medication prior to your procedure as it may thin your blood and cause excess bleeding. Any blood thinners or pain medication such as Ibuprofin and Aspirin should stop being taken at least 48 hours before your microblading procedure.

How much does Microblading cost?

Depending on your location and the skill of the artist, microblading can cost anywhere between $250-$1500. For our current price list, please visit the Microblading tab on our menu.

How many times do I Need to get Microblading done?

For the best results, we strongly suggest 2 sessions - your first session and your 6 week touch up. Some individuals may even need a 3rd session depending on their desired look and their type of skin. This also depends on how you follow the provided aftercare. After your 6 week touch up, with proper aftercare, most individuals are good for around a year.

How long does the Microblading procedure take?

The procedure generally takes between 2-3 hours. The first 15 minutes, up to an hour, are spent measuring and drawing your brow shape. Next comes numbing for 20 minutes. After removal of numbing cream, the Microblading begins and can take 1 hour to 1 1/2 hours depending if shading is also included. Time is also spent going over the aftercare.

Does Micoblading make hair grow or do you have to shave off your brows to get it done?

Microblading does not make your hair grow or stop growing. You will still need to tweeze, wax or thread your brows like normal, if you did that before getting Microbladed.

You do not need to get rid of any hair before your session, the more hair the better! We can remove any hair that is outside the lines of the brow drawing.

If you prefer to get yours waxed/threaded before your session, it must be done at least 72 hours in advance. Afterwards, we would recommend waiting at least 2 weeks, so your brows have time to heal.

Am I a good candidate to get microblading done?

Microblading candidacy depends on the client's skin condition and health conditions. Anyone with pre-existing health conditions or taking medications may want to wait until they are off those medications to get Microblading done.

We can not perform microblading if you are or think you may be pregnant. If you are only breast feeding, you will need to provide a doctor's note with permission to be microbladed.

If you are Diabetic - we will need a doctors note with permission to have microblading done. Healing process may also take longer due to medications you are on.

Anyone with these skin conditions in or around their eyebrow area are not good candidates for microblading:

Individuals with the following conditions are not suitable for microblading

Heart Conditions and/or taking blood thinners

Autoimmune Diseases (such as Lupus, Multiple sclerosis(MS))

Hemophilia (excessive bleeding if microbladed)

Trichotillomania (if you pull out your brow hairs and it may cause scar tissue, causing)

Individuals using the following:

Retinol/Vitamin A - discontinue the use of these products on forehead/brow area for at least 30 days prior to microblading

Accutane - severe acne medication that thins the skin - must wait an entire year following Accutane usage

Retin-A - creates thin skin and must wait one year following usage of this product

Individuals with previous permanent makeup - pigment may not retain if scar tissue has formed. We can only attempt to cover old permanent makeup tattoos that are either very light pink or grey, however there is no guarantee that new microblading and shading will stay, or cover old tattoo. You must inform us of any previous permanent makeup, including any old microblading and provide pictures or complete in person consultation. Failure to advise of old permanent makeup, will result in cancellation of appointment and deposit will be lost.

Oily skin and/or skin with large pores may not hold pigment as well and may heal blurred, creating more of the powdered look. Those with deep wrinkles in/around brows, can appear to be uneven as strokes may not lay properly. Any bumps, moles, scars, or scar tissue from previous permanent makeup will not be able to retain color as well, if at all.

If you are sunburned, you should wait until it has healed to get Microblading done.

If you are vacationing, make sure to plan your procedure at least 2 weeks before or after, to allow time to heal before being exposed to the sun or water.

What can I expect after the microblading procedure?

The most common things clients can expect after microblading are:

Redness and swelling around the area

Tenderness in and around brows

Days 2-6 color may appear to get darker

Anywhere from days 3-7, moderate to thick scabbing may occur or dry flakey skin

Around days 5-10 scabs will start flaking off

Itchiness may occur when skin is dry and flaking. DO NOT PICK OR SCRUB

After scabs/dry skin flake off, pigment color will look like they disappear, may look grey or blurry

After 4 weeks, area is fully healed and pigment color should return

Any areas that do not heal the same can be fixed at your 6 week touch up

Everyone's skin is different, so results may very.

After about 10-14 days of healing, skin can get completely wet without messing up the healing process. Swimming, complete submerging in water while showering, heavy exercise and sweating should be refrained from during this time. Full healing is 30 days after procedure is done.

Clients expectations

Brows are sisters, not twins. There is no way your brows will ever be completely symmetrical. It is very important that you have realistic expectations. Nobody's eyes are equidistant from the bridge of their nose, so the starting point of your brows are a little different to begin with. Brow bones are also different, one may be higher. Brow muscles may also be different, creating a different appearance when your eyes are open. We will try to get your brows as symmetrical as we can, but microblading does not mean you will have exactly the same brow on each side.